Introduction

This is a tutorial about modeling a cartoon duck. The modeling technique is spline modeling. The model is constructed in 3D Studio MAX by using splines. The model will get its final form when Surface modifier and Meshsmooth modifier is added to it. Why this kind of modeling technique? Nowadays polygon modeling seems to be the standard for character modeling. I think that polygon modeling is usually an easier approach. But sometimes certain subjects might be faster to model by using splines. And anyway I think spline modeling is a useful skill to have :) Spline modeling requires good skills of manipulating bezier splines. When modeling with splines you should always aim to model so that each hole in the spline cage has four edges. This kind of modeling guarantees that the final model will consist of quads which is good for deformations.

Profile

Create the profile of the duck in the Right view by creating a spline object according to the picture below. Use exactly the same number of vertices. You need to use smooth, bezier and bezier corner vertices to create a smooth shape.

The place for the Eye & the Wing

Create two circles and attach them to the profile of the duck. Modify the new splines according to the picture below. Always remember to check the splines both in the Right and Front views. These new splines are places for the eye and the wing.

The Neck

Create splines into the neck of the duck according to the picture below. Remember to use the same number of vertices as in the picture below.

The Body

Create new splines according to the picture below. Use vertex snap and Editable Spline's "Create Line" button to speed things up. Remember that all new splines should be part of the same object. You could create new shapes and attach them to the duck but it's better to use "Create Line" button in Editable Spline.